What to do now?

[sadie1953]

Okay guys, My Rooster has just about made all my hens naked. So I got the hen saddles, well I guess it's working. Have decided to separate the Rooster, my question is how long do u separate them? I Have 1 Rooster & 7 Hens. Small coop. Okay so how do u keep Hens from Rooster and vice avisa. I let them out a couple of times aday any suggestions? What kind of shelter does anyone suggest I build to put Rooster in?

 

[Chick Charm]

Can you afford (have room for) 4 more hens? Ultimately I think that would solve the problem of over breeding.

Or you could put him in a large dog crate for a day or two at a time if you have one. If you want to build something small but permanent maybe something like this but built to fit your roosters size. This one is 8 X 2 X 2.

 

[WalkingOnSunshine]

What ChickCharm suggested might work. Also, you might just not worry about it. As long as the hens aren't stressed, remember that humans are far more distressed by bare backs than the hens themselves are.

 

[Judy]

I agree, I'd just keep saddles on the hens ond leave the rooster in the flock. You might also consider trimming his spurs and nails, if they are sharp or long. Check the hens' sides just behind the wings to be sure they haven't been cut. The saddles protect the hens from sunburn, another consideration, and the feathers will eventually grow back if they will tolerate the saddles. You can find informatin on managing spurs and nails in our Learning center if you need it.

 

[sadie1953]

How do you tell if they are stressed?